On the banks of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, St. Louis is known for its baseball, beer, and one of the world’s most famous arches. It’s named for King Louis IX, and it has more free major tourist attractions than any other city in the USA, besides D.C. Urban explorer, die-hard sports fan, aficionado of fun… no matter what kind of person you are, you’ll find what you’re looking for in St. Louis. It’s all in a day’s work: between discovering unique neighborhoods, historic tours of Civil War sites, and sampling the wares of local craft breweries, it’s no wonder you want to propose here! Check out some of our favorite spots to pop the question in the Gateway to the West.
Classic City Proposals
The Gateway Arch
The most popular tourist attraction in St. Louis is the Gateway Arch. The Arch is a city staple and a classic proposal spot. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see almost 30 miles in each direction from the top. Make a reservation at Tony’s, a two-minute walk away, then make your way over to the Arch to take your future fiancée on a ride to the top. Take in the breathtaking moonlight view of downtown St. Louis from 630 feet in the air. While you’re taking in the views with your S/O, don’t panic if the arch feels like it’s moving. The structure was designed to sway, and withstand earthquakes!
Forest Park
In many ways, Forest Park is the heart of St. Louis: the 1,300-acre park is home to the city’s top cultural institutions and hosts many of the region’s most popular events. For a summer proposal, you can’t go wrong with the free concerts, a romantic picnic, outdoor Shakespeare, or even during the huge hot air balloon race. If you want to propose in winter, we suggest sledding down Art Hill or taking your love ice skating. If you’re more active, Forest Park also has a massive network of trails that are wonderful year-round for the perfect secluded proposal.
Proposals with Beautiful Views
Missouri Botanical Gardens
The Missouri Botanical Gardens border Tower Grove Park, and sprawl across more than 79 acres, displaying hundreds of varieties of flowers and plants. Additionally, the gardens feature a rotating stock of sculptures created by artists from all around the world. With a number of small gardens with different themes, there are tons of places that would make an ideal proposal. For a more public ask, we say check out the gorgeous tropical Climatron and the water outside. If you’re looking to be more intimate, we suggest proposing in the Japanese Garden — the views of the lakes, bridges, and lanterns are sure to please. Your photos are sure to be lush and beautiful! To top it off, consider spending the night at the Fleur de Lys Mansion to celebrate.
Chandler Hills Winery
This breathtaking winery is located just outside of St. Louis in Defiance. Understated and elegant, it has a 5,000 square foot deck that overlooks six acres of vineyards, lakes, rolling hills, and the Osage Valley. Take your S/O here for a private tasting, or host a surprise party for friends and family! You’ll all enjoy great wine, delicious food, and even live music during your visit. If you love it, you can even get married here!
Out and About Proposals
Anheuser Busch Brewery
Standing proud in the historic Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis, the Anheuser-Busch brewery is one of the largest and oldest brewery sites in the U.S. Regardless of the experience you choose, you’ll be transported in time as you walk through the halls of the historic St. Louis brewery. You could go together and take a tour, but we suggest planning a surprise proposal party here. Their events team can help you plan, and nothing screams “I love you” like proposing in the outdoor Biergarten!
The Butterfly House
More than a thousand gorgeous tropical butterflies fly freely in the beautiful glass conservatory at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Faust Park! Take your love here on a date: you can watch a butterfly emerge from a chrysalis right before your eyes, marvel at the insect collection on display in Small Wonders, or go outside and visit native and migrating species in the Native Butterfly Garden. It is a unique and fun experience, and it’s sure to please your S/O. Surprise them by getting down on one knee in the middle of the house, surrounded by lush plants and majestic butterflies. And, don’t forget to take pictures!
Restaurant Proposals
Vin De Set
Vin de Set is most famous for its outdoor patio, the place where the boozy brunch was born. But if the weather’s not so good, the indoor experience is equally (if not more) awesome. The third-floor room soars high above, with exposed brick walls, a vaulted ceiling, and one of the best fireplaces in the state. The bar area may be even more of a plus, featuring giant booths that are perfect for a post-proposal cuddle. The food is French with an American twist, and the cocktails are to die for!
Bar Les Freres
It’s impossible to dine at Bar Les Freres with your S/O without falling even more in love with them! It has two whimsical rooms, with deliciously upscale dishes in a low-key and unique atmosphere. The red walls, giant draped windows facing a particularly charming block of Clayton, and stylish white leather couches will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a hip Parisian locale right in the heart of St. Louis. Flirt over French classics that are expertly prepared. You’ll love the amazing breadbasket; you might even feel like proposing before you’ve even received your food!
